Media News

McCormick Reforms Continue to Benefit Exhibitors

January 11, 2011 10:20 AM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

McCormick Reforms Continue to Benefit Exhibitors

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – Officials from McCormick Place, home of the Chicago Auto Show since 1961, have implemented another round of reforms that are designed to increase flexibility for conventions and tradeshows in Chicago. Following quickly after Phase One reforms in August 2010, which most notably expanded exhibitor rights, this second round of changes aims to make McCormick Place even more inviting to current and potential exhibitors.

Changes include: reduced crew sizes; reduced electrician charges; expanded "straight time" hours for labor; reduced catering costs; more affordable food concessions for the public and more affordable parking rates. As a result of these changes, exhibitors can expect to see up to a 20-30 percent reduction in electricity charges and patrons of McCormick Place conventions, exhibits and shows will park for only $14 in Lot B, which previously cost $19. The center will further reduce rates to $10 after 6pm each day of the public show.

"We think what’s good for the Chicago Auto Show and its exhibitors is good for the industry overall," said Kevin Mize, chairman of the 2011 Chicago Auto Show. "To that end, we’re happy that these reform packages will help lower costs and increase the ability of our exhibitors to expand their displays for the public."

According to the Chicago Convention & Tourism Bureau, the McCormick Place reforms have already resulted in nearly a dozen tradeshows re-committing to Chicago or committing to bring their business to the city for the first time. Collectively, those commitments represent more that $1.6 billion in estimated direct expenditures for Chicago during the next decade.

About the Chicago Auto Show: The Chicago Auto Show is the largest on the continent, spanning over one million square feet of production, concept, and exotic vehicle exhibit space. In addition to hosting multiple world and North American vehicle debuts, the Chicago Auto Show’s First Look for Charity raises nearly $2 million annually for 18 worthy Chicago organizations in a single night. The 2011 public show will be held from February 11 – February 20, 2011. For more information, visit www.chicagoautoshow.com or www.facebook.com/chicagoautoshow

About the Chicago Automobile Trade Association: Founded in 1904, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) is the nation’s oldest and largest metropolitan dealer organization. The CATA is comprised of more than 400 franchised new-car dealers and allied members. Dealer members employ over 20,000 people in the metropolitan area. For additional information visit: www.cata.info.